A football club have posted a special tribute to “a very special person” following his untimely passing on Friday night.
Niall O’Hanlon died after he was struck by a car on the New Forge Road, close to the Steps Road junction, in Magheralin around 10.30pm.
Magheralin Village FC posted a video tribute to the 25-year-old on their Facebook page.
The photo slideshow showed the youngster in action for the club with the message below reading: “A special tribute to a very special person. We started this club to bring everyone together and now one of us has been taken away. Love you wee man. Xx.”
Earlier they posted: “Last night our wing wizard and best friend was tragically taken from us. He was the heart and soul of our wee football club and village. He will be sorely missed. We love you Niall. Rest in peace. Thoughts and prayers are with Niall’s family and friends at this time.”
Friends and those who knew paid their own tributes.
One person posted: “RIP Niall you were sum lad you will be missed.”
Another added: “Lost for words. Niall you were a legend brightening up every room you entered. Will miss you my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with all your family and team mates.”
Tributes and condolences from many other local clubs were posted.
Earlier this morning, a PSNI spokesperson said: “Police can confirm a 25-year-old male pedestrian has died following a Road Traffic Collision on the New Forge Road in Magheralin last night, Friday, May 11.
“The man was involved in a collision with a white coloured Skoda Octavia close to the junction of Steps Road around 10.30pm.
“Police are appealing for anyone travelling on the New Forge Road around the time of the collision and who witnessed anything or anyone who may have dash-cam footage of the collision to contact local officers in Lurgan or the Collision Investigation Unit on 101 quoting reference number 1456 of the 11/5/18.”
DUP MLA Carla Lockhart said she is devastated for the local family.
“The loss of a young life in such circumstances is tragic,” she said. “My thoughts are with his family and friends. A home has been plunged into sadness and we must give time and space for them to grieve.
“I would commend the local people who gave assistance at the scene, the emergency services and the PSNI. I would encourage anyone with any information to come forward to the PSNI and report it.”
